A Photographer’s Dream Locations in the Mid-West

The Mid-Western states are often overlooked as a holiday destination and are even sometimes called the “flyover states” because they may not top people’s must-see destinations in the United States, but that’s a mistake that needs to be fixed.

These states are the least populated in all of America, and you can often find wide open space, endless skies and scenery just begging to be photographed. The cities that have cropped up are a testament to the work ethic and history of the Mid-West where farming took seed and where the auto industry made its home. Photographers interested in industrial photography, nature photography and landscape photography will find their home in the Mid-West of the United States of America.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a city for sports fans—there’s a pro team for every season (and two teams for baseball!) and whether you participate in the cheering and rooting for the home team or if you have your camera prepped to capture the raucous sporting events, it’s bound to be a great turnout and an entertaining time. If you prefer the non-moving subjects like architecture, Chicago has the Willis Tower, the Pritzer Pavilion, to the stained glass Robie House and even the reflective and fun-house-esque “Bean” in downtown Chicago.

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Speaking of non-moving subjects, deep in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a prideful and wholly unique monument to some of America’s forefathers and presidents. Carved into the face of the mountainside are the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. The Presidential Trail loop will take you directly below the monument so you’ll get a great view up the presidents’ noses. Head away from the monument for a more natural photo that captures the full impact of the sculpture.

Boulder, Colorado

Boulder Colorado has a serious crush on the outdoors. Everyone who lives here (but, really, everyone) is somehow active in the surrounding environment, whether they be cyclists, ski enthusiasts, college students attending the University of Colorado, or hikers who’ve come to explore the nearby mountains. There are lively shops and street performers and while this isn’t like its sister-city Denver at all, Boulder does host a majority of the state’s tourism. Get in with the locals and try taking photos of the mountains, head to the ski resorts or to The Hill, the hub of nightlife in Boulder.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City, the capital city of Utah, may be large, but it gives of the vibe of a very small-town. It’s easy to get around anywhere and nights are quiet—if you didn’t know better, you’d never guess there are over 1.2 million people who live in the metro area. Salt Lake City is the equivalent of Vatican City for Mormons, although less than half the inhabitants are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Like to hike and take photos? Wasatch Mountain’s a mere 45 minutes away, or you can stick to the city centre and people-watch. Foodies will love Salt Lake City too, for the diverse and international dining options and hey, who doesn’t secretly want to snap a picture of a perfectly plated dish?

They say pictures are worth a thousand words, and if that’s true, every picture is worth protection. Safeguard your photos and your gear with a travel insurance policy that allows you to customise the level of cover for your luggage and other devices and equipment. Head to the Mid-West for a look at a part of the States that most visitors never see—the rugged, clear and naturally beautiful space is worth the visit.